PREDICTION OF EROSION HAZARD LEVELS AND DIRECTIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL LAND CONSERVATION ON THE NORTHWEST SLOPES OF MOUNT LAWU, KARANGANYAR REGENCY

Abstract

Agricultural land on the northwest slope of Mount Lawu, Karanganyar District, is developed on land with a very steep slope and has the potential of increasing erosion in the surrounding area. This research aimed to determine: (1) the level of erosion hazard, (2) the allowable amount of erosion, and (3) the direction of land conservation. This research is quantitative research with a descriptive approach. The research data then analyzed descriptively based on the results of calculations using the USLE model. From this study, the researcher found several results. These results namely: (1) The level of erosion-hazard from the samples consisted of moderate (sample point I, VI), and very severe (sample point II, III, IV, V). The level of erosion hazard in the research area using geographic information system analysis is dominated by moderate (62.18%) and very severe levels (32.04%); (2) The amount of erosion allowed at the six sample points ranges from 13.00-18.08 tons/ha/yr. These six-sample points also have the potential for higher erosion rates than allowed. Therefore, land conservation instructions need to be given. (3) The instructions for the six sample points may apply vegetative methods (by changing ground cover vegetation) and mechanical methods (by changing land management).